KUALA LUMPUR: Star Media Group (SMG) has been conferred the National Unity Media Leadership award for the its contribution to fostering unity and leadership within the nation.

The award was given at the Sejahtera Malaysia forum organised by KSI Strategic Institute for Asia-Pacific, Dialog Rakyat, and UCSI University, aimed at exploring social harmony and national unity, objectives of the Rukun Negara.

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, in delivering his opening speech, emphasised the need to turn the principles of the Rukun Negara into reality for every Malaysian.

“The Rukun Negara has been our guiding star, continuously fostering patriotism and unity. The harmony and unity among Malaysia’s multiracial community over the last five decades are direct manifestations of the five principles of the Rukun Negara,” he said.

At the Sejahtera Malaysia forum, The Star managing editor Brian Martin said SMG was committed to promoting unity and understanding among the diverse communities as one of the leading media groups in the country.

“I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of SMG. This commitment goes beyond just our award-winning journalism.

“SMG's platforms, from our flagship publications to our innovative radio stations and dynamic digital presence, all strive to foster open dialogue and celebrate Malaysia's rich tapestry.

“We even extend this mission through events, bringing people together to engage in meaningful conversations.

"Building a well-informed and inclusive society is key to a nation's success, and SMG is dedicated to playing this role across all our ventures,” he said after receiving the award at Le Quadri Hotel by UCSI Hotels here, on Monday (April 29).

The forum, which highlighted the objectives of the Rukun Negara, also saw Mohamed Tawfik Ismail, the eldest son of Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman, receive the special icon award for his strong advocacy of moderation and unity.

Tawfik, who is on the Maju Malaysia advisory committee, also called for a bigger budget allocation for the National Unity Ministry to continue holding more programmes to unify the people.

“Your (Aaron) portfolio is the most important and most needed to mend fences and build rapport, and for me, personally, it deserves a budget equal to if not more than that given to Islamic Development Department (Jakim) as you serve a wider constituency,” he said.

At the Sejahtera Malaysia Forum, KSI Strategic Institute for Asia-Pacific's Tan Sri Michael Yeoh said the programme underscores the importance of collaboration and dialogue in building a harmonious nation.

UCSI group founder and executive chairman Datuk Peter TS Ng said platforms like the Sejahtera Malaysia forum enabled companies to reaffirm their commitment to fostering understanding and empathy among Malaysia's diverse communities.